Current UK regulation is hindering best practice training for Private Military Security Companies (PMSCs) and could ultimately damage industry reputation, according to maritime security and training firm, Maritime Asset Security and Training (MAST) Ltd.
MAST says that it shares the concerns raised at the London International Shipping Week, Security in Complex Environments Group panel debate at the House of Commons, on the UK firearms regulations that inhibit PMSCs from training with firearms on British soil before they are deployed on vessels.
It says that if PMSCs are not authorised to train personnel with the appropriate weapons the reputation of the industry could suffer, as without consistency clients may lack confidence in a service. Also, the perception of variable standards in firearms handling by PMSCs training guards abroad further reduces the PMSC’s competitiveness.
The maritime security company points out that the UK’s regulation is at odds with the International Code of Conduct for the regulation of private security companies which requires appropriate weapons training. In response, MAST has been developing a firing range with its partners in Malta to allow its security people, and indeed others, to train on the full calibre version of the weapons used on-board ships.
MAST believes that the establishment of weapons training facilities in the UK, with strict guidelines and associated standards, would reassure clients.
Phillip Cable, CEO of MAST said: “Private Military Security Companies operate internationally and thereby ought to adopt exceptional and consistent international standards which clients can feel confident in. The highest quality training is vital in this industry, to ensure both personnel and client safety. For the PMSC industry to be trusted and respected, the UK, along with the international community, need to work together to ensure the highest standards.”
For further information visit: http://www.mast-commercial.com/
